DMX died on April 9, 2021 in White Plains, New York, after he was hospitalized on April 2 following a reported heart attack.
Biography
Earl Simmons was the second of three children of a single mother, and was born in Mount Vernon, New York Simmons ended up growing up in the School Street housing projects of Yonkers, New York. He began rapping around the age of 13, amusing crowds of children with rhymes that relied on spelled-out words, a style he called "spellbound." A local rapper eventually asked the young Earl to beatbox for him, and Simmons agreed, adopting the stage name DMX, which stands for "Dark Man of the Unknown," X being an algebraic expression for unknown. But at the time, stood for a drum system that delivered amazing beats. Eventually he decided to try his hand at serious rapping, and honed his skills during a stint at a group home. He also got into fights and frequently was on the run from police. During this period, he also began doing shows and battling other rappers (Once battling and defeating Jay-Z), making a name for himself in the New York area. He released his first album called "DMX: Unleashed and Unreleased" which was an instant hit on the streets of Yonkers. He was also featured in the Unsigned Hype section of The Source in 1988.
He stated he wanted to be a preacher when he retires from his rapping career as he stated in his reality TV Show DMX: Soul Of A Man.
DMX was a fan of the Pit Bull type dogs (American Pit Bull Terriers and American Staffordshire Terriers). He had a tattoo of one of his deceased dogs, on his back, which read "One Love Boomer". He later contributed over $1 million to the United Negro Association for unfortunate black children in New York City..
Recording career
In and out of jail, DMX decided to focus solely on his rap career. He began seriously looking for a deal and linked up with Pete McCormick Schaub, an A&R for Small Island at the time. Eventually, he signed a management deal with Ruff Ryders. They negotiated deals with both Bad Boy and Death Row Records, but he eventually landed at Def Jam. He is currently at Sony BMG, set to release his first of three albums on August 1st 2006. Rumors also arose that DMX had signed for 50 Cent's G-Unit Records, but were dismissed in a public news conference.
It's Dark and Hell Is Hot
Before It's Dark and Hell Is Hot, DMX released the single "Born Loser" which was banned on MTV due to the video's graphic images. DMX's debut single was "Get At Me Dog", which was an instant hit. His critically-acclaimed debut album, It's Dark and Hell Is Hot, is often credited with revitalizing Hardcore Rap in the mainstream scene, after the death of Tupac Shakur, and after Puff Daddy and Bad Boy Entertainment briefly dominated the charts with their pop-oriented and sample-reliant tunes.
In 1997, DMX earned a second major-label shot with Def Jam, and made a successful guest appearance on LL Cool J's "4, 3, 2, 1." Additional guest spots on Ma$e's "24 Hours to Live" and fellow Yonkers MCs the The LOX's "Money, Power, & Respect" created an even stronger buzz, and in early 1998, he released his debut Def Jam single, "Get At Me Dog." The song went gold and was a hit on the rap and dance charts. The single paved the way for DMX to release his classic first full-length album, It's Dark and Hell Is Hot, which debuted as number one on the pop charts.
Produced mostly by Damon "Dame Grease" Blackman, (Swizz Beatz produced the "Ruff Ryders' Anthem", paving the way for future projects between the two). It's Dark and Hell Is Hot earned DMX numerous comparisons to Tupac Shakur for his booming and aggressive presence on the mic. The album went on to sell over four million copies and earned him credit for revitalizing Hardcore Rap after the deaths of Tupac Shakur and The Notorious B.I.G. Shortly after the album's release in May 1998, DMX was accused of raping a stripper in the Bronx, but was later cleared by DNA evidence. He made his film debut together with Nas and Method Man in Hype Williams' mildly successful film Belly. Although not a critical success, the film found a strong following with hip hop audiences.
Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood
DMX completed his second album before the end of 1998, and a pending buyout of Def Jam pushed the record into stores December 15. Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood entered the charts at number one and eventually went triple platinum. This number one hit made DMX the first rapper to have two number one albums in the same year. The cover photo of the rapper covered in pig's blood caused some controversy. The single "Slippin'" became his first chart hit in the UK. DMX hit the road with Jay-Z and the Method Man/Redman team on the blockbuster Hard Knock Life tour the following year. He had a song called "Jack Moves" with the legendary rap group Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, but the song did not appear on the album.
...And Then There Was X
DMX released his third album on December 21, 1999, ...And Then There Was X, which was his third straight album to debut at number one. Party Up was his biggest single since "Get at Me Dog" which became his first Top Ten hit on the R&B charts. His next singles off the album, "What's My Name" & "What These Bitches Want" feat. Sisqó were also popular. ...And Then There Was X is the rapper's best-selling album to date, going 6x platinum and 9x platinum worldwide, & one of the fastest made by DMX : Def Jam urged him to realise the tracks within a month, while DMX used to take a year to write songs.
The Great Depression
After resolving his legal problems, DMX returned to the studio and completed his fourth album, The Great Depression. Released October 3, 2001, it was DMX's fourth straight album to debut at number one. The album demonstrated his still strong allegiance with the Ruff Ryders. The Great Depression went platinum quickly, but lacked the staying power of his previous releases.
Grand Champ
Released in 2003, Grand Champ was DMX's fifth straight album to debut at number one, extending DMX's position as the only artist in history to have 5 albums (his entire album catalog at that point) debut at #1. Fans and critics claimed disappointment with the album, most stating that it felt formulaic. After its release, DMX informed the public that he planned on retiring from the rap game and that Grand Champ would be his final album. He later ended his brief retirement and announced his plans to record the album Year of the Dog...Again. It debuted with approximately 125,000 albums sold, but failed to give DMX a sixth consecutive #1 album. The album is his lowest selling to date, and has yet to reach Gold in the U.S.
Year of the Dog...Again
Released August 1st 2006, Year of the Dog...Again had numerous problems due to DMX switching record labels, as well as numerous delays. The album's five predeccesors debuted at #1, while this album missed the top spot by only a few thousand sales. In March, 2006 it was announced that the album had been renamed to "Year of the Dog, Again," from "Here We Go, Again." When DMX switched to Sony, Def Jam allowed him to keep all of the tracks he had created for the album. It was reported that most of the tracks were being reworked, with updated production, however the reworked album has also been leaked. DMX has also appeared on Busta Rhymes' "Touch It (The Remix)". He has also released his new singles "Lord Give Me A Sign", and "We In Here" feat. Swizz Beatz, which are included in "Year of the Dog...Again".
Rob All Night
DMX Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
If I'm lookin' for somethin' it's probably a fight (yeah)
If I'm gonna fuck bitches then they better be tight (yeah)
If that's dead, then the head better be right (come on)
If I'm gonna rob, I'ma rob all night (yeah)
If I'm lookin' for somethin' it's probably a fight (yeah)
If I'm gonna fuck bitches then they better be tight (uh)
If that's dead, then the head better be right (come on)
Here we go again, fucking right (yeah)
Dark Man X, baby, dog for life (yeah)
You know how this shit go, real dogs bite (uh)
Bitch dog be like, "Aigh, aigh, aigh"
Ooh, this rap shit be getting kinda hectic (uh)
It's not a game and you cats don't respect it (uh)
Real shit's been neglected for far too long (what?)
Let's get it on (come on)
I drop off slugs like packages from UPS (uh)
But you run when you see X (uh)
Pull out the front when you see Tecs (what?)
Blaow, the light is what you see next (woo)
Fuck who you listenin' to, I'm the baddest (yeah)
Ninety-eight percent of the industry is faggots (uh)
Stuart Little niggas don't want no static (aight)
When they say who shot J R it won't be Dallas
If I'm gonna rob, I'ma rob all night (yeah)
If I'm lookin' for somethin' it's probably a fight (yeah)
If I'm gonna fuck bitches then they better be tight (yeah)
If that's dead, then the head better be right (come on)
If I'm gonna rob, I'ma rob all night (yeah)
If I'm lookin' for somethin' it's probably a fight (yeah)
If I'm gonna fuck bitches then they better be tight (uh)
If that's dead, then the head better be right (come on)
Y'all niggas don't know how the dog livin' (what?)
No matter what I do, keep on winnin' (what?)
Can't stop me now, It's just the beginning (what?)
Been in, gon' be there 'til the endin' (uh)
In 2005 you gon' know (what?)
Stop, drop, open up shop, let 'em go (what?)
Hit 'em with the same flow, hit 'em with befo' (what?)
This time goin' around the back do' (what?)
Got me like, "God, you niggas is stupid"
Took a drum track, four bars, a horn and looped it (uh)
The same shit you did to me, took what you did (yeah)
Got niggas movin', but not on some cute shit (aight)
Dog done did it again, uh-huh (what?)
Dog is in it to win, uh-huh (what?)
Dog bit a nigga and then, uh-huh (what?)
You thought dog was a friend? Uh-uh (come on)
If I'm gonna rob, I'ma rob all night (yeah)
If I'm lookin' for somethin' it's probably a fight (yeah)
If I'm gonna fuck bitches then they better be tight (yeah)
If that's dead, then the head better be right (come on)
If I'm gonna rob, I'ma rob all night (yeah)
If I'm lookin' for somethin' it's probably a fight (yeah)
If I'm gonna fuck bitches then they better be tight (uh)
If that's dead, then the head better be right (come on)
My niggas some niggas that you don't wanna try (uh)
But then again, I be that one to bust a nigga in his eye (uh)
I don't give a fuck, bitch, all my niggas ready to die
Hit you with the things, so you niggas ready to fly?
Knock, you don't want no more (what?)
Bring all ya got to even the storm (what?)
E5 is hot? You want war? (War)
Really don't know what you're askin' for (come on)
Listen lil' man, don't do that
We all dogs over here, don't act like a cat
We're like untouchables, round table with a bat (uh)
Stop at his chair then crack, crack, crack
If I'm gonna rob, I'ma rob all night (yeah)
If I'm lookin' for somethin' it's probably a fight (yeah)
If I'm gonna fuck bitches then they better be tight (yeah)
If that's dead, then the head better be right (come on)
If I'm gonna rob, I'ma rob all night (yeah)
If I'm lookin' for somethin' it's probably a fight (yeah)
If I'm gonna fuck bitches then they better be tight (uh)
If that's dead, then the head better be right (come on)
If I'm gonna rob, I'ma rob all night (yeah)
If I'm lookin' for somethin' it's probably a fight (yeah)
If I'm gonna fuck bitches then they better be tight (yeah)
If that's dead, then the head better be right (come on)
If I'm gonna rob, I'ma rob all night (yeah)
If I'm lookin' for somethin' it's probably a fight (yeah)
If I'm gonna fuck bitches then they better be tight (uh)
If that's dead, then the head better be right (come on)
The lyrics of DMX's song "Rob All Night" convey a sense of confidence and aggression, as DMX asserts his dominance in various arenas. He speaks of robbing all night, suggesting a relentless pursuit of his goals, whether they be financial or otherwise. He also makes clear that he will not shy away from a fight and expects those around him to be equally fierce. He speaks of wanting tight women and good head, displaying his sexual dominance as well. The lyrics throughout the song suggest that DMX is not to be messed with, and that he will do whatever it takes to achieve his ends.
One interesting fact about this song is that it was released as part of the soundtrack for the hit movie "Exit Wounds," which starred DMX alongside Steven Seagal. The song was a commercial success, reaching the top 30 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Additionally, the song features production from Swizz Beatz, who was a frequent collaborator of DMX during this period. Another interesting fact is that the song uses a sample from the James Brown song "The Payback," further emphasizing the theme of getting what is owed to oneself.
The song also features several other notable lyrics and phrases, such as "stop, drop, open up shop," which has become a signature catchphrase for DMX. The song also includes references to other rap and pop culture figures, such as Stuart Little and JR from the hit TV series "Dallas." Additionally, the song features a strong beat and DMX's signature growling delivery, adding to the overall intensity of the track.
Unfortunately, the chords for "Rob All Night" are not readily available online.
Line by Line Meaning
If I'm gonna rob, I'ma rob all night (yeah)
I'm not gonna stop robbing until morning. (yeah)
If I'm lookin' for somethin' it's probably a fight (yeah)
I'm likely to get in a fight if I'm searching for something. (yeah)
If I'm gonna fuck bitches then they better be tight (yeah)
If I'm going to have sex with women, they better be physically attractive. (yeah)
If that's dead, then the head better be right (come on)
If the sexual activity is boring, oral sex better make up for it. (come on)
If I'm gonna fuck bitches then they better be tight (uh)
If I'm having sex with women, they need to be physically attractive. (uh)
Here we go again, fucking right (yeah)
I'm going to have sex again, that's for sure. (yeah)
Dark Man X, baby, dog for life (yeah)
I am DMX, a rapper, and I will always be loyal to my friends like a dog. (yeah)
You know how this shit go, real dogs bite (uh)
You should know that true friends will act aggressively to defend each other. (uh)
Bitch dog be like, "Aigh, aigh, aigh"
Women who act like dogs make annoying sounds like 'aigh, aigh, aigh'.
Ooh, this rap shit be getting kinda hectic (uh)
The rap industry is overwhelming and has become more difficult to keep up with. (uh)
It's not a game and you cats don't respect it (uh)
There's nothing funny or entertaining about this industry, but many people don't appreciate that. (uh)
Real shit's been neglected for far too long (what?)
The authentic aspects of rap have been overlooked and ignored for an extended period. (what?)
Let's get it on (come on)
It's time to address and correct the issues concerning real rap. (come on)
I drop off slugs like packages from UPS (uh)
I have a habit of shooting and injuring people like delivery drivers transporting items. (uh)
But you run when you see X (uh)
When individuals see me, they quickly run away in fear. (uh)
Pull out the front when you see Tecs (what?)
I'll notify my friends to pull out their weapons when we see firearms. (what?)
Blaow, the light is what you see next (woo)
The next thing you will experience is a blinding light when we shoot you. (woo)
Fuck who you listenin' to, I'm the baddest (yeah)
Disregard any other rappers because I'm the best, (yeah)
Ninety-eight percent of the industry is faggots (uh)
Almost everyone in the rap game is fake and homosexual. (uh)
Stuart Little niggas don't want no static (aight)
Small and insignificant individuals don't want any real problems. (aight)
When they say who shot J R it won't be Dallas
When someone asks who shot someone, it won't be the person or location you expect.
Y'all niggas don't know how the dog livin' (what?)
You don't understand the way I'm living day to day. (what?)
No matter what I do, keep on winnin' (what?)
I always come out on top no matter what I do. (what?)
Can't stop me now, It's just the beginning (what?)
I am unstoppable, and this is only the start of my success. (what?)
Been in, gon' be there 'til the endin' (uh)
I've been in this industry for a long time, and I'll be here until the end. (uh)
In 2005 you gon' know (what?)
You'll soon discover who the real king of rap is. (what?)
Stop, drop, open up shop, let 'em go (what?)
Stop and give me your attention, then let me show you how it's done. (what?)
Hit 'em with the same flow, hit 'em with befo' (what?)
I'll use the same rap style I've used before to show dominance. (what?)
This time goin' around the back do' (what?)
This time I'll approach from a different direction. (what?)
Got me like, "God, you niggas is stupid"
People often do things that are incomprehensible to me. So I say, god, these people are ignorant.
Took a drum track, four bars, a horn and looped it (uh)
I made a new song by repeating a drum track, four bars, and a horn. (uh)
The same shit you did to me, took what you did (yeah)
I took the same actions you took against me. (yeah)
Got niggas movin', but not on some cute shit (aight)
I'm inspiring people to move, but not in a sugary or sweet way. (aight)
Dog done did it again, uh-huh (what?)
I have done something successful once more. (what?)
Dog is in it to win, uh-huh (what?)
I aim to be victorious in this profession. (what?)
Dog bit a nigga and then, uh-huh (what?)
I hurt someone (possibly figuratively) then continued as usual. (what?)
You thought dog was a friend? Uh-uh (come on)
You may have thought we had a friendly relationship, but that's not the case. (come on)
My niggas some niggas that you don't wanna try (uh)
My associates are people who you shouldn't challenge. (uh)
But then again, I be that one to bust a nigga in his eye (uh)
However, I have a tendency to get into fights and physically harm someone. (uh)
I don't give a fuck, bitch, all my niggas ready to die
I don't care if I die, and all my friends are willing to die as well.
Hit you with the things, so you niggas ready to fly?
I'll strike you forcefully, so you'll soar away in fear.
Knock, you don't want no more (what?)
You will regret it if you continue to provoke me or my mates. (what?)
Bring all ya got to even the storm (what?)
Prepare to use up all your assets if you wish to fight equally with us or stop irritating us. (what?)
E5 is hot? You want war? (War)
You believe East 5th Street is desirable? You're asking for trouble. (War)
Really don't know what you're askin' for (come on)
I suspect you're oblivious to the danger you're inviting. (come on)
Listen lil' man, don't do that
Hey, young man, I suggest you don't make that poor decision.
We all dogs over here, don't act like a cat
All of us are 'dogs' or loyal men, so don't act like a 'cat' or coward.
We're like untouchables, round table with a bat (uh)
We're invulnerable, and we use violence to maintain our authority. (uh)
Stop at his chair then crack, crack, crack
We'll smash your head if you sit on a particular seat.
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd., Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Dana Stinson, Earl Simmons
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind